My rowhouse yard is very small. Can you still help me?

Yes! We love taking on small projects. As a Baltimore-focused design studio we know the majority of homes don’t have a lot of outdoor space, and we are here to help you maximize what you have. Other designers may shy away from small yards, but our service options are made with rowhouses in mind.

What resources do you have for DIY’ers?

Many of our clients want to get their hands in the dirt and bring their ideas to fruition, but they don’t know where to start. For some people, a coaching session is all they need to confirm they are headed in the right direction. For others, a consultation package provides the information and tools to hit the ground running. Along with diagrams and sketches, consultation follow-up material can include plant lists, hardscape material options, recommended suppliers and typical details.

Why should I hire Cedar Avenue instead of a design/build contractor or installer?

If you shop around, you will find that there are plenty of contractors which also provide design services. For many people, this “one-stop” service is the way to go. But, the benefits to hiring a designer first are many:

• You get a a unique site-specific design - not what is easiest to build or only comprised of in-stock material

• You can shop around and find the best contractor for your job, at the best price.

• You have the option to hire smaller, local contractors and can lean on Cedar Avenue to assure the job is done right.

Can you tell me more about the full-service Garden Design process?

Our design process consists of the following steps:

• Initial phone call. During this quick call, we will discuss the rough parameters of the project and schedule an in-person consultation.

• On-site consultation. We discuss in more detail the client’s wishes, preferences and the desired function of the yard or home. We aim to discover the what, when and why of the project: What will you be doing in the space? When will you be there? And Who will you be with?

• Preparation and approval of design contract.

• Site Analysis visit. We will return to the site to take measurements, take photos and shoot grades. For small yards, this work can often be accomplished in conjunction with the initial consultation.

• Concept Design. We will prepare one or two concepts for the space, looking broadly at form and function and will use precedent imagery to convey feeling and intention. The concept design(s) will be presented in person.

• Final Design. Based on feedback from the client, we will prepare a final design. Depending on the scope of work, the deliverables can include: a demolition or removal plan, an overall plan showing the layout of beds and any hardscapes, a detailed planting plan and schedule, detail sheets and a plant palette of proposed plant material. The drawings will include all measurements, details and notes to clearly communicate the design to a landscape contractor. The final design can be presented in person or virtually.

Can you integrate landscape lighting and water features into the design?

Absolutely. We provide comprehensive landscape plans which can include any design element you choose. For Consultation clients we can recommend lighting products and vendors as well as off-the-shelf water features.